Monsoons in Delhi are a blessing in disguise as they offer residents respite from the scorching heat. However, this relief is usually accompanied by a rise in cases of flu, cholera, jaundice, dengue and infections.
Many outpatient departments (OPDs) have registered a jump in the number of people coming in with season-related infections, said doctors.
“It is very important to be careful during monsoons as one becomes prone to infection, allergy or indigestion. The rainy season is associated with wetness and excessive humidity, which helps bacteria and other microorganism multiply at rapid rates. Although most monsoon diseases are preventable, they remain undiagnosed until complications arise,” said Zeenat Ahmed, an internal medicine specialist at Jaypee Hospital in Noida.
“This much-awaited season in India also brings with it the dreaded monsoon flu. From children to adults, everyone falls prey to this sickness at least once during the season. The hot and humid weather acts as the perfect incubator for various influenza strains to flourish. Fluctuating temperatures also have an adverse effect on the body in such a situation,” said Tarun Sahni, senior consultant, internal medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.
Dr. Sahni said though flu infection is not fatal, critical complications can develop in high-risk people like children, elderly persons and people with weak or compromised immune systems.
Doctors said the best way to stay safe this season is to avoid crowded places like theatres or exhibitions. Other ways include keeping the garments dry to avoid catching fungal skin infections; consuming freshly prepared food and avoiding eating out as much as possible; covering the mouth and nose with a handkerchief while coughing or sneezing; and drinking only boiled water or water from the purifier as preventive measure against water-borne diseases.
Kanchan Naikawadi, preventive healthcare specialist, Indus Health Plus, said, “One of the most prevalent monsoon diseases is gastroenteritis. Waterlogging and overflow of sewage lines during monsoons spread bacteria. Flies and other pests also act as agents that spread these infection. If a person consumes food or drink water that has come in contact with infectious bacteria and pests, it may cause gastroenteritis. Consumption of such food and water contaminated with bacteria, toxins and parasites can lead to gastroenteritis.”
Gastroenteritis leads to irritation and inflammation of the inner lining of the stomach. An infected patient suffers from acute diarrhoea and vomiting. Some of the most common symptoms include severe diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal pain, cramps and dehydration, which can be noticed in about 24-48 hours.
The condition, if not treated properly in time, can lead to more serious problems like kidney complications. It is, therefore, always advisable to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and medication.
